Champion jockey turned adventurer Richard Dunwoody can finally put his feet up after a 'gruelling' trek across the length of Japan, which took more than three months.

The ex-pupil of Rendcomb College in Gloucestershire set out on his first challenge for seven years on February 26, walking 2,000 miles unsupported for bone and soft tissue cancer charity Sarcoma UK.

Today he finally finished the epic adventure, through which he has been inspired by his nephew George's battle with the rare type of cancer.

“I am delighted and relieved to have completed my hike across the length of Japan’s three largest islands from Cape Sata, the most southerly point of Kyushu, to Cape Soya, the most northerly one in Hokkaido," he said this morning.

"It has been an incredible and, at times, gruelling experience, having covered more than 2,000 miles on foot since I set out on February 26.

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"It has also been a humbling experience and I will never forget the kindness and generosity of the Japanese as I have travelled through their country.

After thanking all of his supporters, he added: "The hike has been mentally and physically tough at times but it has been nothing to what George has had to endure over the past 20 months.

Richard Dunwoody (right) pictured with his nephew George

"He certainly has been a huge inspiration when things became a touch difficult during the past three months and I hope and pray that in the very near future he can make a full recovery from this terrible disease."

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Dunwoody rode 1,699 British winners in his career but swapped the saddle for worldwide adventures and life as an expedition photographer.

In 2008, he trekked to the South Pole with American explorer Doug Stoup and a year later, completed 1,000 miles in Newmarket. On the celebrity front, he competed in series seven of Strictly Come Dancing.

In Japan, the partner to Olivia and dad of one-year-old Milly, camped out or stayed in local accommodation.

It is hoped that now he is back, his £25,000 fundraising target can be reached.